abscesses - abscesses can occur anywhere on the body, usually around the face. They will be warm and can become hard with pus. They are caused usually by a bacterial infection. They can be removed surgically or lanced and drained and treated with antibiotics.
allergies - common signs are a clear discharge from the eyes and sneezing. skin crusting and soreness could occur. allergens must be identified and removed. eyes and sores can be bathed with a saline solution, more serious cases may need steroid treatment.
anorexia - refusal of food. this can be caused by many things if a rabbit is feeling ill or in pain. immediate veterinary assistance must be sought to identify the problem and prevent stasis and liver failure.
bloat - symptoms shown are refusal of food, relucatancy to move, a hard, swollen tummy, no droppings. bloat can be fatal. the stomach has filled up with gas. always provide a high fibre diet. bloat is a serious emergency, and veterinary assistance is needed immediately. fluids must be given, and encouragement to move, and pro-biotics.
conjuctivitus - reddened, sore eye(s) with discharge. can be caused by an allergy. tear ducts could need flushing, and eyes need to be bathed. eye drops can be prescribed and possibly antibiotics.
cystitis - blood in the urine, frequent urination, urine stains. antibiotics needed.
diarrhoea - loose stools. excessive thirst, dehydration, anorexic might be seen. probiotics and fluids will be needed.
dribbling - indicates a mouth disorder. the most common cause is dental problems.
flystrike - dirty fur and soiled skin will attract flies. they lay their eggs and maggots will form within 24 hours. they will burrow into the skin and release toxins fatal to rabbits. this is an emergency, immediate veterinary care is needed. most rabbits will not survive flystrike.
gastric stasis - when digestive mobility is impared, food stays in the stomach for longer and fluid drawn from the food will cause a stomach blockage. symptoms are a hard, swollen stomach, lethargy, anorexia, lack of droppings. emergency! pain relief, fluids, laxatives needed.
hairballs - can cause a blockage in the stomach and stasis.
head tilt - the head will be tilted to one side, rabbit will suffer a loss of balance, disorientation, eyes flick. usually caused by a middle ear infection or E.C. (a parasite) which releases spores which cause neurological problems. Wormer is used to treat the E.C., also antibiotics and/or corticosteroids to reduce swelling in the brain.
heat stroke - symptoms include mouth breathing, weakness, depression, disorientation. cool rabbit and provide fluids. can cause the rabbit to suffer a state of shock.
more to follow... xxx
Sat Mar 10, 2012 12:42 pm
xxx
